Carpenter Insurance in Ontario
From framing crews on new builds to finish carpenters in custom homes, carpentry work is the skeleton of every project. We connect Ontario carpenters with licensed brokers who understand builder contracts and the coverage framers and finishers really need.
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Service & Support:
- Follow-up from a licensed broker within 24 hours
- Policy Review and Comparison
- Risk Assessment
- Help with certificates of insurance, policy changes and contract reviews
- Renewal planning well before your policy expires
Quick answer
What insurance does a carpenter need in Ontario?
Ontario carpenters and framing contractors usually need commercial general liability with completed operations, tools and equipment coverage, commercial auto and WSIB, which is mandatory for most construction businesses. Framers working for builders are often asked for $5 million in liability and a WSIB clearance before they start.
Framing and finish work carry different risks
Framers work at heights, on new construction sites, often as subcontractors to builders who set strict insurance and WSIB requirements. Finish carpenters work inside finished homes where property damage is the bigger risk.
Either way, completed operations coverage matters. A framing defect or a poorly anchored stair can lead to a claim long after you have left the site.
Connect NowHow CommercialInsurance.ca works
We are not an insurer or a broker. We find you the right one.
Matched by industry
We connect you with a broker who works with businesses like yours, not a generic call centre.
Licensed Ontario brokers
Insurance brokers in Ontario are licensed by the Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO).
Fast follow up
Once we receive your information, a professional in our network will connect with you within 24 hours.
No cost to be matched
Our referral service is free for businesses. You deal directly with the broker for quotes and coverage.
What coverage does a carpenter need?
These are the coverages most carpentry programs include.
General liability with completed operations
Covers injury and property damage during and after your work, including claims from structural or installation defects that cause damage.
- Completed operations for past work
- Builder additional insured requirements
- $2 million to $5 million limits
Tools and equipment
Saws, nailers, compressors and trailers are the backbone of the business and a common theft target on job sites.
- Tools on site and in transit
- Trailers and compressors
- Rented equipment
Finish carpentry in finished homes
Working around finished floors, cabinets and furniture raises the chance of property damage claims. Make sure your policy covers damage to existing property.
- Damage to existing finishes
- Custom millwork
- Occupied home work
What does carpenter insurance cost in Ontario?
As a general guide, many Ontario carpenters running as an owner operator or small crew see roughly $1,200 to $5,000 a year for $2 million in general liability plus tools and equipment coverage. WSIB and commercial auto are priced separately. These are estimates only. See our contractor insurance cost guide.
Raises the price
- Framing multi unit or commercial buildings
- Work at heights
- Large crews
- Past claims
Helps lower it
- Finish and residential work
- Fall protection program
- Clean claims history
- Several years in business
Budget separately
- WSIB premiums, based on insurable earnings
- Commercial auto for work vehicles
- Surety bonds for bonded contracts
Meet your builders' requirements with confidence
Tell us about your carpentry or framing business and we will connect you with a licensed Ontario broker who can meet builder contract requirements and issue certificates and clearances fast.
Running the whole project? See general contractor insurance.
Connect NowCarpenter Insurance FAQs
What liability limit do builders ask framers for?
Many builders require $2 million to $5 million in liability, with the builder named as an additional insured, plus a WSIB clearance before work starts.
Does carpenter insurance cover defects in my work?
Liability insurance covers damage your work causes to other property or people. It generally does not pay to redo your own faulty work.
Do I need WSIB as a contractor in Ontario?
Most people who own or run a construction business in Ontario must have WSIB coverage, including sole proprietors, partners and executive officers, whether or not they have employees. There is an exemption for independent operators who only do home renovation work hired directly by the homeowner, and one non working executive officer or partner per company can be exempt. Read our WSIB clearance certificate guide.
How fast can I get a certificate of insurance for a new job?
A broker who works with contractors can usually issue a certificate of insurance the same day, including additional insured wording for the general contractor or property owner. See our certificate of insurance guide.
What happens after you request commercial insurance?
1Discovery Call
(30 to 45 min)Understand operations, contracts, assets, and loss history.
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We will request your
expiring policies and loss runs.
2Risk Mapping
(1 to 3 days)Document exposures, limits, sublimits, deductibles, and endorsements that fit your contracts.
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3Market Placement
(2 to 5 days)Approach the right markets
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and negotiate terms, exclusions, and deductibles.
4Proposal & Bind
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Side-by-side options in clear wording, so you can choose with confidence.
Protect your team too
Offer health, dental and life benefits your employees will value.
We also connect Ontario businesses with licensed benefits advisors, from two person teams to growing companies.
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